Mouth Guards and Night Guards
Mouth guards protect teeth, lips, mouth, and jaw. We strongly recommend mouthguards for kids who play sports—especially contact sports—and kids who are starting to get their permanent teeth but are still grinding their teeth.
Dental Mouth Guards and Dental Night Guards
A mouthguard is an essential accessory for athletes who participate in contact sports or engage in physical activities, regardless of their age. It helps soften impacts and prevent serious injuries that may lead to painful oral health issues. We provide custom-made mouthguards made from lightweight materials to ensure they are comfortable and effective. These mouthguards do not interfere with your regular breathing or speaking.
Night guards are similar to mouth guards but are worn while sleeping to prevent damage caused by bruxism. Bruxism is a disorder that can cause people to clench and grind their teeth while asleep unknowingly. If left untreated, it can result in teeth fractures, breakages, headaches, and jaw pain.
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What types of dental mouthguards exist?
Dental mouthguards can be categorized into three main types, each serving different needs:
- Stock Mouthguards: These are pre-formed and ready to wear. They are the least expensive option but offer the least protection and comfort since they aren’t customized to fit your mouth.
- Boil and Bite Mouthguards: These mouthguards are made from thermoplastic and are available at most sporting goods stores. They are placed in hot water to soften, then inserted in the mouth and shaped around the teeth using finger and tongue pressure.
- Custom-Fitted Mouthguards: Made by our office from a mold of your teeth, these offer the best fit, comfort, and protection. Though more expensive, their precise fit can provide superior protection against dental injuries.
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Why are mouthguards important for athletes?
Mouthguards are an essential piece of protective equipment for athletes across a variety of sports, particularly contact sports such as football, hockey, basketball, and martial arts. They help to:
- Prevent Tooth Fractures and Dislocations: Mouthguards cushion blows to the face, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, face, or jaw.
- Absorb Shock: They distribute the force of a blow over a larger area, reducing the impact and preventing serious injuries such as concussions.
- Avoid Costly Dental Repairs: By preventing dental injuries, mouthguards save athletes from expensive and often painful dental procedures.
Whether you’re an athlete looking to protect your smile during sports or someone seeking relief from nighttime teeth grinding, our DeFuniak Springs Family Dental team is here to provide you with the best solution. Visit our office to learn more about our custom-fitted mouthguards and nightguards and take a proactive step in safeguarding your oral health.
Need a Mouth Guard?
If you have more questions about mouth guards and night guards, please contact our office, and we will be happy to discuss further.
